Kvapil scheduled to race after assault arrest

CONCORD, N.C. (AP) – Travis Kvapil said he was embarrassed by his arrest on charges of misdemeanor assault and false imprisonment against his wife.

Kvapil, who will race Saturday night at Charlotte Motor Speedway, apologized to BK Racing, NASCAR, fans and “anyone else that was impacted by Tuesday night.”

“Obviously, there was a domestic situation Tuesday night with my wife. Regret that that happened,” he said after qualifying 41st Thursday night.

“Because it is a family, personal matter, we ask for respect and privacy in this situation and we try to work it out together as a family. I’m obviously embarrassed about the situation. I don’t like the negative effects that it has brought on.”

NASCAR said it is close communication with BK Racing and gathering information on the Tuesday night incident between Kvapil and his wife, Jennifer. The 2003 Truck Series champion was released from police custody on $2,000 bond Wednesday morning.

“NASCAR does not condone the actions with which Travis Kvapil has been charged and we are disappointed to learn of this incident,” NASCAR said in a statement. “NASCAR takes this matter very seriously and will continue to monitor the situation as it moves forward.”

According to court records reviewed by The Sporting News, Kvapil allegedly pulled his wife into a bedroom by her hair and struck her in the head. He is not permitted to return home and can only contact his wife by phone or email on matters concerning their children. He faces a Nov. 19 court date.

Kvapil, who drives the No. 93 Toyota for BK Racing in the Sprint Cup Series, was in the car at Charlotte. He is 31st in the standings.

“BK Racing understands the severity of the situation and we don’t condone the actions that Travis has been accused of,” team co-owner Ron Devine said. “We feel it’s important to let the system take its course. For that reason, we have elected to support Travis and his family and keep Travis in the car for this weekend’s race. Further comment will be available as additional information becomes available.”

Kvapil has raced at NASCAR’s national level since 2001. Although he’s winless in 240 career Cup starts, he has won nine Truck Series races.

“It’s been tough. I guess you really find out your true friends, your supporters,” Kvapil said. “It’s been quite an eye-opening experience. Been through some things I definitely don’t ever want to go through again. We are going to let it take its course, let it work itself out, one day at a time.”

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